Moving From London to Edinburgh

Moving from London to Edinburgh is a significant transition, offering a more relaxed lifestyle and lower living costs while maintaining the benefits of a vibrant city. Edinburgh, Scotland’s historic capital, is known for its stunning architecture, cultural events, and scenic landscapes. Many Londoners are making the move to escape the high costs and fast-paced environment of the UK’s capital. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about moving costs, living expenses, job opportunities, and the best places to live in Edinburgh.

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Why Are People Moving from London to Edinburgh?

The cost of living in London has been steadily rising, making Edinburgh an attractive alternative for those looking for a more affordable and peaceful lifestyle. Between 2015-2017, 21,740 people relocated from London to Scotland, with Edinburgh being a popular destination. Key reasons for this migration include:

  • Lower Cost of Living – Consumer prices in Edinburgh are on average 20% lower than in London.
  • Less Crowded Environment – London has 9.6 million residents, whereas Edinburgh has a much smaller population of 553,569 (World Population Review).
  • Historical and Cultural Appeal – Edinburgh offers UNESCO-listed sites, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and a deep sense of heritage.
  • Better Work-Life Balance – The city offers a slower pace of life while still maintaining strong career prospects in finance, healthcare, and technology.

Cost of Moving from London to Edinburgh

The cost of moving from London to Edinburgh depends on several factors, including the volume of belongings, type of moving service, and additional services required. The distance between the two cities means that moving costs are typically higher than a local relocation. However, with careful planning, you can minimize expenses and find the best deal for your needs.

Removal Cost Breakdown

  • Budget Removal Services (shared van, basic service) – £1,500 – £2,000
  • Mid-Range Removal Services (dedicated vehicle, reputable company) – £2,600 – £3,500
  • Full-Service Premium Removal (packing, assembly, insurance) – £3,500 – £3,900

Factors Affecting the Cost

  • Volume of Belongings – A two-bedroom flat typically requires 660 cubic feet of space.
  • Distance – The journey is 402 miles, and many removal companies charge £1 per mile.
  • Flexibility – Those with flexible moving dates can take advantage of shared loads, reducing costs by up to £1,000.
  • Additional Services:
    • Packing: £250
    • Dismantling/Reassembling: £125
    • Storage: £40 per week

Find out how much moving to Edinburgh from London can cost you. Set your budget using our moving costs calculator.

Cost of Living Comparison: London vs. Edinburgh

One of the biggest advantages of moving to Edinburgh is the lower cost of living compared to London. From housing to transportation, you’ll notice a significant difference in how far your money goes. Below is a comparison of some common expenses in both cities.

Expense London Edinburgh
Rent (1-bed apartment, city centre) £4,642 £1,686
Monthly Public Transport Pass £160 £60
Basic Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water) £305.58 £193.07
Restaurant Meal for Two £70 £60
Taxi Starting Price £4.00 £3.80
Cinema Ticket £12.00 £10.00
Preschool Monthly Fees £1,573.83 £1,064.76

(Data from Numbeo Statistics)

The significant savings on rent and utilities make Edinburgh an attractive choice for those looking to increase their disposable income.

Best Areas to Live in Edinburgh

Choosing the right neighborhood in Edinburgh depends on your budget and lifestyle. Some areas offer historic charm and high-end living, while others provide more affordable housing with great local amenities. Whether you’re looking for a quiet suburb or a bustling city center, Edinburgh has something for everyone.

  • Stockbridge – A charming area with cobbled streets, independent boutiques, and trendy cafes.
  • Bruntsfield – Ideal for professionals who want a quiet area near green spaces like The Meadows.
  • Leith – One of the most affordable areas, undergoing rapid development.
  • Marchmont & New Town – Affluent and historic areas with stunning Georgian architecture.
  • Gorgie & Abbeyhill – Budget-friendly neighbourhoods with good transport links.

Transportation & Commuting in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has a well-developed public transport system that makes commuting easy and efficient. While it doesn’t have an underground system like London, its buses, trams, and cycle-friendly streets provide excellent connectivity. The city’s compact size also means that many people can walk to work or use public transport conveniently.

  • Buses – 24/7 services across the city.
  • Trams – Connects Edinburgh Airport to the city centre.
  • Cycling – Edinburgh is part of the National Cycle Network.
  • Taxis – Over 1,000 black cabs operate in the city.

Edinburgh does not have an underground system, but its public transport infrastructure compensates well.

Job Market & Salaries in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has a diverse job market with opportunities across multiple sectors. While average salaries are slightly lower than in London, the reduced cost of living helps balance this out. The city’s thriving industries include finance, healthcare, education, and technology.

  • Edinburgh: £37,191
  • London: £41,000

Key employers include:

  • Finance: RBS, Lloyds Banking Group, Standard Life.
  • Healthcare: NHS Lothian (20,000+ employees).
  • Education: University of Edinburgh (12,000+ employees).

Things to Do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city full of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. Some must-see attractions include:

  • Edinburgh Castle – Scotland’s most famous landmark.
  • Arthur’s Seat – A scenic hike with panoramic views of the city.
  • Royal Mile – A historic stretch with shops, pubs, and landmarks.
  • Edinburgh Festival Fringe – The world’s largest arts festival.
  • Portobello Beach – A seaside escape just 3 miles from the city centre.

Final Thoughts: Is Moving to Edinburgh Worth It?

Moving from London to Edinburgh offers a cheaper cost of living, a more relaxed lifestyle, and access to stunning historic sites. However, there are some trade-offs, including lower salaries and different property purchasing processes in Scotland. If your priorities align with affordability, work-life balance, and cultural experiences, Edinburgh is a fantastic choice.

Pros of Moving to Edinburgh:

✅ Lower rent and house prices. ✅ Less crowded and cleaner air. ✅ Strong job market in finance, healthcare, and tourism. ✅ Free university tuition for Scottish residents after 3 years.

Cons of Moving to Edinburgh:

❌ Lower average salaries. ❌ Colder and more unpredictable weather. ❌ Different home-buying process compared to England.